Which of the following describes the target A1C for older adults with moderate comorbidities?

• A. 6.5-7.0%
• B. 7-7.5%
• C. 8-8.5%
• D. 7.5-8.0%

Answer: (D)

In older adults with moderate comorbidities, glycemic targets are adjusted to balance staying out of hypoglycemia and keeping treatment simple with the realities of their overall health and life expectancy. Because these patients are more vulnerable to lows from aggressive therapy and may have competing health priorities, the target is set less tightly. An A1C of 7.5–8.0% provides reasonable glycemic control while reducing the risk of hypoglycemia and treatment burden, which is especially important when multiple conditions are present and life expectancy may be limited. Tighter targets like 6.5–7.0% increase hypoglycemia risk without clear overall benefit in this group, and 8.0–8.5% can be too permissive, potentially leaving hyperglycemia-related complications unchecked.